Publications
The Control of Traffic Routes and the Military Response System of Sueocheong in the Southeastern Gyeonggi Region During the Musin Rebellion (1728) : Focusing on Namhansanseong
A new analysis reveals that Namhansanseong, traditionally viewed as a royal refuge during the Musin Rebellion (1728), actually functioned as a critical military hub for defending the capital. The study demonstrates how the Sueocheong administration and Namhan Sequmu (South Han River Military Command) implemented multi-layered traffic control measures—including river crossing inspections and ambushes at inland choke points—to suppress rebellion spread. By reconstructing these strategies, researchers show that Namhansanseong served as both a logistical stronghold and a rear command center, challenging prior assumptions about its role. The findings re-evaluate the 18th-century defense system's effectiveness and its broader military and institutional significance.
Based on the Baekje awareness in the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty
A shift in historical perception of Baekje emerged during the Joseon Dynasty, marked by a transition from negative views to a more positive reevaluation. Analysis of the Annals of the Joseon Dynasty reveals that while early rulers like Sejong initially favored Silla, later periods—particularly under Sarim's influence and during national crises such as the Imjin War—highlighted Baekje's contributions, including figures like Gyebaek and Seongchung. Namhansanseong Fortress, a former Baekje capital, gained prominence as a key defense site, reflecting growing respect for Baekje's legacy. This trend continued through the 18th century, with political and military achievements tied to Baekje's founder, King Onjo, further solidifying its historical significance.
Material Properties of Lime Mortars Used in the Architectural Heritage of the Joseon Dynasty
Research reveals that lime mortars from three Joseon Dynasty sites—Munsusanseong Fortress, Namhansanseong Fortress, and Godeung-dong lime-barrier tomb—exhibit characteristics of Sammulhoe, a traditional mixture of lime, sand, and clay minerals. While primarily composed of air-setting lime, samples from Namhansanseong and Godeung-dong show minor hydraulic properties, likely due to dolomite inclusion. The study also confirms the presence of brick and tile particles (Waseol), aligning with historical records of Joseon-era construction techniques. To uncover these insights, scientists conducted comprehensive analyses, including physical property assessments, microscopy (optical and SEM-EDS), XRD, WD-XRF, and TGA, providing a scientific foundation for understanding traditional Korean architectural materials.
A Study on the Historical Placeness of Hanam Region as the Old 'Eupchi' of Gwangju through the Old Map of the Late Joseon
A historical-geographical analysis reveals that Hanam, now part of Namhansanseong's administrative legacy, retained its regional significance as an 'Eupchi' (administrative center) for Gwangju-bu even after national-level functions shifted to Namhansanseong in 1626. The study leverages late Joseon Dynasty maps and administrative records to trace Hanam’s enduring role as a local hub, highlighting its transition from the Gwangju-bu system of the Joseon Dynasty to the Gwangju-gun system established in 1914. This dual-layered approach underscores Hanam’s persistent historical placeness, bridging national and regional governance structures.
Analysis of perceptions before and after world heritage listing using text mining techniques : focused on Namhansanseong Fortress
UNESCO World Heritage listing significantly alters public perception and utilization of cultural sites, as demonstrated by Namhansanseong Fortress. Before its 2011 designation as a potential World Heritage Site, the fortress was primarily recognized for its historical value and outdoor activities. Post-listing, perceptions shifted toward global recognition and tourism, with 'Nearby Travel' emerging as the dominant topic during the consolidation phase (2017–2022). Text mining analysis of blog data from 2011 to 2022 revealed that policy influences and heritage-related programs shaped keyword prominence, while visualizing topic changes highlighted the transition in public awareness. This study underscores the need for consistent long-term tourism policies and heritage program development to sustain such positive shifts.
Measuring Displacement before and after Repair on Korean Wooden Built Heritage: Records for Authenticity and Sustainability
A detailed displacement analysis of Korean wooden built heritage, including the Sungryeoljeon Shrine at Namhansanseongreveals that while repairs induce significant initial changes, these remain stable over four years. However, future repairs are expected to cause substantial displacement, underscoring the importance of meticulous record-keeping for authenticity and sustainability. The study employed point-by-point measurements before repair, immediately after, and four years post-repair to track structural alterations.
The life and writing activities of Yu Yu-heon(由由軒) Namgyeop(南礏)
Yu Yu-heon Namgyeop's writings, including the 'Soldier’s Diary' and 'Byeong Jeong Diary,' offer invaluable insights into the Manchu War era (1636) and the intellectual perceptions of that time. His detailed records, spanning battlefield dynamics, weaponry, and political turmoil, transcend conventional loyalty narratives, providing a nuanced view of historical events. Additionally, his practical research on sericulture, documented in 'Jammongyoeo,' reflects a proactive approach to stabilizing post-war livelihoods. This study highlights Namgyeop's dual contribution: as a chronicler of war-era experiences and an innovator in agricultural technology, bridging historical documentation with applied science.
Aspects of reconstruction of the Byeongjahoran narrative based on Jeong Se-gyeong's defeat
A new analysis reveals how Jeong Se-gyu's political faction and noblemen's loyalty narratives reshaped the historical account of the Manchu War, particularly focusing on King Injo's defeat at Namhansanseong Fortress. The study traces complex post-war dynamics, including rewards for fallen officials, punishments for surviving generals, and the strategic advancement of Jeong Se-gyu despite his crushing defeat. By examining historical materials, personal records, and descendants' memorials, researchers uncover how power struggles and loyalty logic influenced the reconstruction of this pivotal event in Korean history.
The sorrow and suffering of the Byeongja War appeared in the poetry of Kim Sang-heon and Choi Myeong-gil
Poetry by Kim Sang-heon and Choi Myeong-gil, retainers of Namhansanseong Fortress, reflects the enduring psychological scars of the Byeongja War (1636–1640). Their works reveal divergent perspectives: Kim's bitterness toward Qing dominance and unyielding loyalty to the fallen Ming dynasty, while Choi's verses express grief for lost comrades and the Crown Prince Sohyeon, alongside hope for Joseon's revival. The study analyzes their Chinese poems to uncover shared trauma and contrasting ideologies—Kim's defiance against surrender and Choi's emphasis on fidelity—highlighting how personal and national suffering shaped post-war narratives.
The Way Philosophy of History is Represented in Fiction and Film—Focusing on Irony and Ethics on Others in the Novel Namhansanseong and the Adapted Film The Fortress
A comparative analysis of Kim Hoon's historical novel Namhansanseong (2007) and its film adaptation The Fortress (2017, directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk) reveals divergent ideological implications in their representation of history. While the novel employs irony to critique language, history, and societal structures, often reinforcing patriarchal and feudal ideologies, the film subverts this through revolutionary ethics centered on empathy for others. The study highlights how the film's narrative shifts from a paternalistic perspective—depicting the king as a father figure—to one that challenges authority, emphasizing individual agency and social justice. This transition is achieved by removing the novel's linguistic ironies and instead using cinematic techniques to humanize marginalized characters, such as low-ranking officials, and mitigate misogynistic undertones. The film's ending, where commoners live peacefully without rulers, symbolizes a modern reinterpretation of historical trauma, contrasting sharply with the novel's original intent.
A Study on the site planning(spatial arrangement) and characteristics of Military Temple on Bukhansanseong Fortress
A unique spatial arrangement in Military Temples within Bukhansanseong Fortress during the late Joseon Dynasty reveals their dual role as both religious and military strongholds. Unlike traditional temples, these structures featured distinct spaces for Buddhist services and military functions, including armories for gunpowder weapons, reflecting a specialized functional design. This separation of priest soldier facilities from religious areas was a defining characteristic, particularly evident in Jungheungsa Temple and Buwangsa Temple sites, with similar patterns observed in Namhansanseong Fortress's Hangheungsa Temple site. The study highlights the close relationship between these temples and fortress defense, demonstrating how spatial planning adapted to both spiritual and military needs, providing new insights into the integration of religion and warfare in Joseon-era fortifications.
Exploring the business feasibility of employment and income-generating products by storytelling for linked tour : Focused on the storytelling-linked tour of four places Kim Jung-jung lecture hall with Namhansanseong, historic house Jong-taek in registered cultural properties, Chil-eun valley first ginseng cultivation place, and Hwadong school
A linked tour package combining four culturally significant sites—Kim Jung-jung Lecture Hall at Namhansanseong, historic house Jong-taek, Chil-eun Valley (first ginseng cultivation site), and Hwadong School—demonstrates strong business feasibility with potential to generate 25,000 jobs nationwide. The study reveals that storytelling-driven tourism not only enhances visitor engagement but also delivers robust financial returns, including a payback period of under two years, high internal rate of return (IRR), and positive net present value (NPV). This approach leverages narrative-based tourism to create synergy among sites while addressing employment and income generation. The research validates the economic viability of integrating heritage storytelling into tourism products, offering a scalable model for similar cultural destinations.
The Activities and Hanging Buddhist Paintings of 17th-century Cheongju Painter Monk Singyeom
A study of 17th-century Buddhist hanging paintings by monk Singyeom reveals significant stylistic and compositional shifts across his works, linked to changes in his collaboration with assistant painters. Analyzing three extant Sermon on Vulture Peak paintings—created at Bosalsa (1649), Ansimsa (1653), and Biamsa (1657) temples—researchers found that while the form remained consistent, later works exhibited reduced Buddha imagery, altered color balance, and more pronounced bodily marks. These changes correlated with the transition from assistant Jibyeon to Deokhui, suggesting evolving artistic influences. Additionally, Singyeom’s monastic title indicates his leadership role within Chungcheong Province and Namhansanseong Fortress, highlighting the support structure provided by the Byeogam monastic lineage, which was prominent in the Hoseo region during this period.
A Study of market segmentation on UNESCO World Heritage tourist Motivation Level - focused on Namhansanseong Fortress tourists -
A study of Namhansanseong Fortress identified four key tourism motivation factors that influence visitor behavior: daily life escape, cultural experience, friendship, and fun pursuit. These factors were derived through cluster analysis of 421 valid responses from a survey conducted in late 2015. The findings provide actionable insights for tailoring marketing strategies to different tourist segments, enhancing the site's appeal as both a leisure and sightseeing destination.
Estimating the preservation value of Namhansanseong Fortress world heritage site using the contingent valuation method
The preservation value of Namhansanseong Fortress is estimated to be approximately 609 billion won annually for the Seoul-Incheon-Gyeonggi region, based on household willingness-to-pay. Using the contingent valuation method (CVM), this study assessed true preservation value by minimizing hypothetical bias through controlled scenarios and real-world conditions. The analysis revealed that heritage value (50.5%) is the most significant factor influencing preservation worth, followed by choice (25.8%) and existence value (23.7%). Key predictors of willingness to contribute to a preservation fund include visit frequency, gender, income exclusion, and strong support for Namhansanseong's conservation. Data was collected from 190 on-site visitors and 70 online respondents with prior experience, excluding 18 non-serious responses.
Column-leaning Displacement of Korean Traditional Wooden Architecture : 3D Scanning Data of Columns of Sungryeoljeon in Namhansanseong
A study on Sungryeoljeon, a historic structure within Namhansanseongreveals distinct column-leaning patterns in Korean traditional wooden architecture. Using 3D scanning technology, researchers measured the displacement of 12 columns, finding they generally lean southward and rotate clockwise, though at varying rates depending on direction. This method offers precise, periodic data to track structural changes over time, providing insights into the behavior of such heritage structures. The findings underscore the importance of continuous monitoring to understand and preserve architectural characteristics that are already in motion.
Factor Analysis of Deterioration in Namhansanseong Yeojang
A factor analysis of deterioration in Namhansanseong Yeojang reveals that breakage due to freezing and thawing is the predominant cause of damage. The study employed non-destructive evaluation techniques to measure directional microclimate, aiming to identify weathering factors contributing to the degradation of these structures. By analyzing environmental conditions, the research provides critical insights for conservation management, suggesting a conservation calendar based on weather patterns and damage factors to mitigate deterioration effectively.
A survey of column-leaning in Korean traditional wooden architecture structures using 3D scandata with a focus on the columns of the Sungryeoljeon in Namhansanseong
A groundbreaking survey of Namhansanseong reveals significant insights into column-leaning—a critical structural behavior in Korean traditional wooden architecture. Using advanced 3D scanning technology, researchers analyzed the columns of Sungryeoljeon, providing precise measurements and representations of this phenomenon. This method offers a modern approach to understanding and preserving heritage structures, building on earlier studies from the 1950s. The findings highlight the importance of technological advancements in architectural conservation, offering valuable data for both academic research and practical preservation efforts.
Analysis of Environmentally Responsible Behaviors based on a Typology of Activity Involvement and Place Attachment - Focuses on Visitors to Namhansanseong Provincial Park -
A study analyzing environmentally responsible behaviors among visitors to Namhansanseong Provincial Park reveals that place attachment (PA) significantly influences pro-environmental actions more than activity involvement (AI). Researchers classified hikers into four typologies based on their AI and PA levels: high-involvement/high-attachment, high-involvement/low-attachment, low-involvement/low-attachment, and low-involvement/high-attachment. The findings indicate that hikers with strong attachment to the site exhibit more active environmental behaviors, while those with low involvement and attachment tend to be passive. This suggests that future resource management for tourism and recreation should prioritize enhancing visitors' emotional connection to specific places over merely increasing activity levels.
Comparison between Hiker and Non-hiker's Sense of place value at Namhansanseong Provincial Park
Hikers at Namhansanseong Provincial Park place significantly higher value on health, relaxation, and environmental aspects compared to non-hikers. The study, involving 587 respondents, categorized sense of place into three factors: Health Culture, Ecology Environment, and Connectedness. Among hikers, local residents showed stronger appreciation for ecology and connectedness than tourists, while no such differences were observed among non-hikers. Repeat visitors, regardless of hiking status, also exhibited distinct preferences. These findings suggest potential for resident-led management programs focused on natural environments and trails, with a priority on increasing repeat visitor engagement to enhance cultural and traditional value.
A Study of the Relationship between Realistic Expression of Objects and Graphic Novel in Korean Comics - Focused on the work by Kwon, Ga-Ya -
This study identifies the potential of Korean graphic novels to develop distinct, competitive identity within the global comics market by analyzing the realistic visual expression in Ga-Ya Kwon's 'Namhansanseong.' It highlights how Korean graphic novels can differentiate themselves from Western and Japanese counterparts through innovative subject matter and artistic techniques. The research focuses on the visual characteristics and narrative structures of 'Namhansanseong,' demonstrating its artistic value and complexity, which aligns with the global trend of graphic novels as a high-art form. By examining this representative work, the study aims to provide insights for revitalizing the stagnant domestic comics market in South Korea.
You are here:
World Heritage Explorer > World Heritage Research > World Heritage Sites > Namhansanseong